Groundwork’s new policy specialist to focus on solar development

Dan will work with homeowners, businesses, colleges, schools, nonprofits, elected officials, installers, and the state’s utilities to find cost-effective solutions for putting new solar panels on rooftops, roadsides—anywhere the sun is shining. Dan’s main role will be to connect and support the area’s clean energy champions as they pursue a low-carbon future for Michigan and the Midwest.

Dan comes to Groundwork after more than two decades working with communities in Michigan and around the country on innovative solutions to reduce unsustainable resource use and pollution. Most recently, Dan served for 10 years as the executive director of the National Association of Environmental Law Societies, a coalition of law student groups and attorneys working to mobilize university communities in support of energy and climate solutions. While at NAELS, Dan also served on the Founding Steering Committee for the Energy Action Network, the nation’s largest coalition of student and youth groups working on climate solutions.

Prior to joining NAELS, Dan served as the Harvard Law School Environmental Fellow, where he coordinated the Environmental Working Group—a team of Harvard Law School administrators, professors, alumni, and students working to develop a comprehensive environmental law program. Dan received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, graduated from Boston University School of Law, and clerked for Earthjustice Legal Defense Fund in the organization’s Washington, D.C., and Juneau, Alaska, offices.

Dan lives in Leelanau County with his wife, two young children, and their pet Westie. When not pursuing energy and climate solutions, he can be found hiking, biking, jogging and skiing the beautiful landscapes of northern Michigan or downstate cheering on his Wolverines.